golden retrievers for sale near me puppies

When looking to purchase a merle make sure you are insuring the Australian Labradoodle breeder is having responsible husbandry practices regarding the merle gene. Any breeder of merle multigenerational Australian Labradoodles should be willing and able to discuss all the facts regarding this genome. Click HERE to learn more from our geneticists. Single carrier merles will live a healthy productive life just like any other dog. To ensure that we only breed single copy merles we verify testing of all outside studs or dams used with our breeding dogs since some dogs carry a hidden merle gene, called phantom merle. They are just as strong, silly, and full of adventure or snuggles, and capable of being a service dog as any other Australian Labradoodle! The problem comes down to greed or skipping testing. But doing so can come at a risk of causing serious health issues. A "double merle" known as a homozygous merle have significantly higher risk of being born deaf or blind. To set a president that ill managed breeding practice is not allowed, which is respectable. A German study found .Double Merle can also cause Merle ocular issues. Regarding the blue color in the eyes sometime can lead to full blue iris or increased inclusion of the eyes and blindness. Even though the blue eyes are beautiful we prefer to breed black or brown eyed single merle dogs to reduce the tendency for any health issues. As a merle breeder it is our responsibility to create health happy animals through preventive DNA tests and yearly OFA eye exams. Which, looks like someone had fun painting your dog and no two dogs have the same exact pattern. This rather exotic wild pattern comes in multiple color variations. Merles labradoodles can come in various color pallets; chocolate merle, blue merle, red merle and can be paired with parti, white mis-marks and phantom. Red or cream dogs in a merle litter have a higher rate of phantom merle. Every puppy from our merle litters are dna tested for merle before going home. Our girl Tiffany is considered a "classic" merle where Ranger is a "Tweed" merle. We only know this from extensive genetic testing from Paw Prints Genetics other companies such as Embark don't go as detailed with Merle testing. So all Merle related testing is done with Paw Prints. The Australian Labradoodle originated in Australia hence the name in the s and was intentionally bred for service and therapy work. They should also not be confused with an American Labradoodle which is the cross of Labrador Retriever and Poodle only. Their eager to please attitude and high intelligence makes them easy to train. As with any breed though, you will need to be consistent! They do best with positive reinforcement and a gentle trainer. Basic training should begin as soon as you bring your Australian Labradoodle puppy home. While Australian Labradoodles are known to have a low to moderate energy level, they are an intelligent breed that requires mental simulation and physical exercise in order to keep them happy and healthy! Their exercise needs can typically be met with about minutes of exercise playing, walking, etc. It is important to remember that not all Australian Labradoodles are the same and some may enjoy more or less exercise to keep them happy and healthy! Australian Labradoodles are a very friendly, social breed that loves everyone making them great family dogs. They are sensitive and can be very in-tune with their humans, who they love to be with! The do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. Australian Labradoodles are happy go lucky dogs that are playful and smart. Always keeping their humans on their toes! The life expectancy of an Australian Labradoodle is between years. In general, smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs. It is important to keep in mind that many factors can affect their life expectancy such as diet, exercise, injury, genetics, etc. Australian Labradoodles are known to be gentle, mellow cross that is smart and eager to please. Their happy go lucky personality makes them great individual or family dogs. Australian Labradoodles come in several different sizes micro mini, mini, medium, and standard which means there is the perfect size for everyone! Australian Labradoodles have been intentionally bred for several generations making their traits and characteristics more predictable. Australian Labradoodles have three main coat types: Fleece: A Fleece coat can either be wavy or curly and will have a silky feel. These are typically non-shedding and relatively easy to maintain. Wool: A wool coat is curly, with a Poodle-like texture, has a cotton-like feel. These are usually non-shedding and can be a bit harder to maintain if kept long. Hair: A hair coat can be either straight or have a slight wave and is comparable to a lower generation ie F1 Labradoodle. These have are typically easy to maintain and have higher chance of shedding, but will vary by puppy. Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles that have been intentionally bred for several generations are typically non-shedding or very low-shedding. However, it is important to note that some breeders we do occasionally will do infusion litters with one of the parent breeds ie the Lab or Cocker Spaniel. These infusion litters may produce some puppies that are low to moderate shedding depending on their genetics. Australian Labradoodles can come in very wide variety of colors and patterns! Below are some examples of the colors and different patterns that we produce. Please note that not all colors and patterns are included! Select Page Merle Australian Labradoodles, what are they? There are many color variations in the merle coat, chocolate, red, blue, parti and phantom are some common colors we produce. The true Australian Labradoodle was designed in the s for the purpose of providing a service and therapy dog to families that suffer from illness or allergies. The breed is allergy-friendly they produce little to no dander, however, some individuals are allergic to the saliva a dog produces. Wally Cochran was the driving force behind this program, and the goal was to produce a non-shedding guide dog. The diversity of these bloodlines have the potential to safeguard the breed from genetic health problems of inbreeding. The result of these crosses produced intelligent, easily trainable puppies that were the beginning of the Australian Labradoodle as we know it now. Chocolate Merle Australian Labradoodle Merle Australian Labradoodle Coat Types The result of these crosses produced intelligent, easily trainable puppies that were the beginning of the Australian Labradoodle as we now know it. Crossing these breeds together compliments the Australian Labradoodle giving these wonderful dogs a hybrid vigor and a variety of coat types: The Wooly Coat: Somewhat poodle like which requires regular grooming is non-shedding and allergy and asthma friendly. The Fleece Coat: The ultimate coat that is easily maintained, non-shedding, allergy and asthma friendly and somewhat like that of an Angora Goat. The Hair Coat: Anything from flat and straight to curls down that back and possibly wavy and minimally shedding, that is less likely to be allergy and asthma friendly. You will usually see this coat in American bred Labradoodles first and second generation bloodlines. A fun loving, quiet, calm yet comical loving companion Overall, the Labradoodle is a fun loving, quiet, calm yet comical, loving companion for families as well as a fantastic service animal, being easily trainable, loyal and intelligent. The Labradoodle is not a recognized breed as yet, however, many breeders are working towards developing a breed standard for the future recognition of the Australian Labradoodle. Blue merle Parti Labradoodle puppy Merle Australian Labradoodles Merle can affect all coat colors in many different breeds. Some dogs are affected by merle, but the patches are either hardly seen or not visible at all. This is why it is essential to have all dogs in a merle breeding program tested for coat color, DNA or blood testing can be done. Combinations such as brindle, sable, phantom or parti merle colors also exist. In addition merle colored dogs have blue and green eye coloring. In the Labradoodles this gene has been brought into the Australian Labradoodle from the merle poodle and or the merle cocker spaniel. We have been breeding merles Australian Labradoodles for 20 years and all of our breeding dogs have been full tested since day one. We work to breed every dog better than the first, always breeding a healthy well balanced dog with a happy disposition and a non shedding allergy friendly coat. Merle Australian Labradoodles come in three primary colors The three main colors are: Blue merle which is a blue-gray color that is carried over through black Chocolate merle which is a diluted color from chocolate Red merle which is a diluted color from red Variations on these three colors can also include a parti gene making the dog have large patches of white mixed with the color and a phantom gene giving the dog tan points. In addition, these great dogs are hypo-allergenic and non-shedding, Merle Australian Labradoodles have their characteristically wavy fleece coats, their intelligence, their upbeat nature and their incredibly friendly temperaments. As such, it is no surprise that these dogs are fast becoming among the most beloved breeds available.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. I fell in love with not only their beauty, but intense loyalty and happy go-lucky attitude. After loosing my first berner to cancer at the young age of 4 and knowing the short life span of the breed, I started exploring dogs with the beauty of the berner but life span of a mix breed. That's when I came upon the Bernedoodle. Not only do they not shed or very minimally , they come in a range of sizes for those not wanting a giant breed. The are also perfect for people with allergies and have a lifespan of years. Twice the length of the berner! Since bernedoodles are a hybrid, they are only likely to inherit a health problem common to both the poodle and bernese. Genetic testing greatly reduces the risk of many diseases. This is why all of our dogs are health tested and do not join our breeding program if they have not been. We hope you enjoy our website and look forward to providing you with your new family member! We are a small Bernedoodle breeder located in Southwest Ohio. We strive to produce healthy, happy, long-living puppies with fantastic temperaments. Our dogs are health tested and make wonderful family pets. We are more than happy to answer your questions and concerns. You've come to the right place. Here, at Premier Pups, our Mini Bernedoodles are happy, healthy, and ready to embark on a life-long journey with their new families. These puppies are raised with love and cared for by the best in the business. We align ourselves only with the best breeders that meet our high standards. All our Mini Bernedoodles come with a year health guarantee that backs up our Premier Promise. Nationwide delivery is available for all out-of-state customers looking to adopt a Mini Bernedoodle. The beautiful Mini Bernedoodles are a blend of fluffy looks and darling personalities. They can be small or medium depending on their generation, but regardless of their size, they are simply adorable. Mini Bernedoodles are designed to be loyal and loving companions for equally loving owners. They thrive in a setting where attention and fun are plentiful. We partner with the best dog breeders in the nation to offer you healthy, happy Mini Bernedoodle puppies. Find your dream Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle mix puppy today! A few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups. View Our Available Bernedoodle Puppies! Standard Bernedoodles are bigger than Mini Bernedoodles reaching weights of pounds. They average inches in height at the shoulders when fully grown. Our Standard Bernedoodle puppies are all 1st generation-F1 variety puppies. They have purebred Bernese Mountain dogs for moms and the dads are Standard poodles. Their Standard Bernedoodles life expectancy is years old. Blue Diamond Bernedoodles have a loving, easy-going, and calm temperament. Bernedoodles are very loyal and social and love to spend time with their parents. Standard Bernedoodles need regular grooming because of their curly and thick coats. Shedding is very minimal after their first haircut and grooming. This breed is known to be a hypoallergenic choice. Here at Blue Diamond Family Kennels, we specialize in breeding Standard Bernedoodles along with a few other great breeds. We have teamed up with a few other reputable Bernedoodle breeders that breed and raise Bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. On our Standard Bernedoodle puppies page you will see all of our available puppies for sale. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Columbus Ohio and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! Questions about Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Columbus OH? We have answers. Give me a an overview of Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Columbus OH. They are a unique cross between the Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle which means they are loving, smart and non-shedding! Our network of experienced breeders has grown so large over the years that many of the breeders are actually highly experienced in arranging travel for puppies such as Bernedoodles to the most convenient local airport. Next time you are concerned about spending hours locating Bernedoodle puppies in Columbus only to find that the puppy is no longer available, give the Uptown Puppies network a try! How does the Uptown Puppies screening process work? When we receive an application, our team takes the time to screen each and every breeder based on certain criteria. Criteria including breeder expertise, experience, legal compliance and even veterinary care. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other sites? As with most designer breeders, the cost of a Bernedoodle can depend on quite a few different factors. Factors including the breeder expertise, location and even coat color or eye color. Why am I hearing so much about puppy mills? You are much more likely to come across a puppy mill or a backyard breeder who has not been ethically breeding, feeding or caring for their dogs. Oftentimes puppy mills are much more concerned about profits than the well-being of their dogs. Are there any Bernedoodle breeders near me? No matter the color, size or sub-breed of Bernedoodle you are like for, one of the top-rated breeders who are associated with our network of breeders is sure to be able to assist you. What should I expect from a Bernedoodle? If you are into training dogs or teaching dogs new, inventive tricks this is definitely the breed for you! How does the Uptown Puppies process work? Our process is actually fairly simple, all you have to do is begin by browsing our countless available litters to find the one that most appeals to you! Once you have located Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Columbus or even Bernedoodles in a different state our team will connect you with the experienced breeder who possesses those pups so that you can express your interest for a specific puppy or variety! Why should I trust Uptown Puppies? Instead of ranking breeders by marketing dollars spent, we filter them by the way they treat their puppies, operate their facilities and treat their customers!

I want to subscribe to your mailing list. Submit Thanks for submitting! Doodle What? Hi everyone, thanks so much for coming to check out our website. There really aren't enough lovely things I can say about these amazing dogs. The perfect family companion for young and old and everyone in between. They are loving and funny, loyal and energetic. Most people are aware of the origins of Labradoodles, they were created with a purpose, and that purpose was to develop a breed that had the service dog capabilities of the Labrador combined with the hypoallergenic qualities of the Poodle. And so the Labradoodle was born. They are continuing to prove themselves as amazing assistance, therapy and service dogs but have also become a beloved companion animal for many different types of owners. Growing up on a dairy farm I have always had a passion for animals big and small. Now as an adult with a family I love to share that passion with my two boys and husband. With my breeding program I aim to produce amazing, quality puppies with good health and wonderful temperaments. Please contact me for any questions you might have. These Founders recognised the need for an Australian Labradoodle breed association that is member-driven, operating with democratic principles. We invite you to join in guiding our beloved breed to the highest potential. This is absolutely imperative for the health and longevity for your puppy. Experience, explore and enchant Our miniature and medium multi-generational Australian Labradoodle puppies spend the first weeks of their lives in a lush, sunny valley in beautiful Tallebudgera, Gold Coast. How we arrived here As with most dog lovers, our love affair with dogs started at a young age. Big ones, small ones, pedigrees, bitsers. They included Poodles and a much-adored Labrador. In , we said goodbye to our beautiful 'Bailey the Beagle' after 16 wonderful years, so the search for a new pup to join our family began. We stumbled across the Labradoodle and instantly fell for this amazing breed. With all the wonderful traits of both the Poodle and Labrador we were in love — again. An opportunity We joined a guardian program and received guardianship of our wonderful Charlie Brown, a multigenerational Labradoodle. We watched with interest the depth of affection, care and science that goes into the breeding of these wonderful animals. After doing this a few times, we knew that we had been caught by the heart, and we bought our first breeding girl - Abby-May. Our Aim Healthy, loving and intelligent At Aamberdell Labradoodles, Gold Coast, our aim is to provide well-adjusted, healthy, loving and intelligent companion dogs with an emphasis on the temperament and health physical and mental of the mother and puppies. We are not a puppy farm or kennel. This is a hobby, We do it because we love the breed and want the joy of breeding perfect, healthy little Labradoodle puppies to be a soul mate and a loving companion. With only one or two litters at a time, the focus remains on providing exceptional care, quality and attention. This attention to quality care is what you want for your puppy, and what will make a difference in shaping their future. Developing the puppies We follow the Puppy Culture model, an internationally recognised program for making the first weeks of life count and ensuring life-long confident, well adjusted dogs. All Labradoodle puppies are put through a bio-sensory and Early Scent Introduction program during the first three weeks and at week seven are temperament tested to ensure they will be happy in the environment they will be placed into at eight weeks old. Our puppies are given a range of experiences and socialisation with family, extended family, neighbours and friends, dogs, chooks, and a cat, all of which help them to adapt to lives with their new families. They are raised within the home, are loved, cuddled, spoken to - sometimes sung to : , and are included in our lives as much as possible. They have three enclosures - bedroom their own , outdoor grassed play pen for sporting activities and deck area for late afternoon catch ups and bar-b-ques. The mother is treated as all mothers should be — with love and respect. All puppies have been raised here indoors until weeks of age where they then make their way to the outdoor nursery for further development. These puppies coming through will be the last from us due to retirement. Regardless that we are retiring we will still be here to answer any future questions for the lifetime of your puppy — we will only be a phone call or email away. Both puppies will have wonderful outgoing natures and are raised with our adult dogs and well socialised during their 8 weeks here with us. Like all our past Krakajak puppies they will bring you many years of joy, love and laughter. For further information please email me sarahhum westnet. Our lovely pooches are first and foremost our family pets. They are regularly groomed here at home and are taught to swim so they can join us in the pool during summer months. Our puppies are born and raised in our home up until they reach weeks of age where they are then moved into the puppy play area where they can begin to learn and explore their big wide world. When you purchase a puppy from KrakaJak Labradoodles you do so knowing that comprehensive DNA testing has guided us to select the parents of your puppy in the hope that they will lead a long and healthy life as a valued member of your family. Krakajak Labradoodles breed Australian Labradoodle puppies with beautiful non-shedding coats in colours of Red, Apricot, Cream, Caramel, Chocolate, and Black; other colors and patterns available on occasion. We look forward to continuing our journey working with and promoting this fabulous breed of dog. Sharing the joy of owning a Labradoodle. Welcome to the home of Jajaca Australian Labradoodles. They are incredibly fun loving, loyal and intelligent with a brilliant temperament to match. These attributes make for the perfect family companion! I have owned dogs all my life, but ran into many dramas with allergies and health concerns with my then young family. After researching the Australian Labradoodle and what the breed represents, I realised that the Australian Labradoodle was everything I was looking for. Fast forward 15 years, my daughter Cassidy, my adopted sister Nicola and I feel nothing but gratitude to be able to provide our families with the quality Labradoodles I was searching for many years ago. I am so fortunate to have been given encouragement and total support from all members of the ALA, who share their knowledge and wisdom for the betterment of the breed. All these years later and I am still totally hooked, assisting to mentor new ALA Breeders, and finding I am more in love with this breed than I ever thought possible. We are and will remain a dedicated breeder bringing up our babies in our family environment free of kennels. All our girls and boys live with loving families locally and nearby, where they are raised with rules, boundaries and discipline and loved unconditionally by their families. Our breeding girls and boys family has grown wonderfully in the last 17 years. We currently have some stunning girls and boys we are very proud of and some youngsters waiting to mature who will continue Jajaca into the forseeable future. Please visit their photo albums to check them and their breeding statistics out. They were precious, valued members of our family, the girls that started Jajaca and though we miss them everyday, their memory reminds us of why we do what we do, to share the joy they brought us with other families. Blaise beauty, Harper and Jajaca Jaycee are all now additions to our family group. Our focus as a breeder has been and will continue to be to offer quality, sound, healthy dogs as genuine family companions and never compromise the wonderful qualities of the breed. Please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any enquiries regarding this truly magnificent breed or ask about our upcoming litters. We hope that you enjoy browsing our site! Our Breeding Practices Behaviour and socialisation I absolutely pride myself on your puppy having the very best start in life! My daughter is a groomer, so all of their needs are well taken care of. Additionally, they have mouth… Read more Health The health and wellbeing of my mothers and their pups is paramount. Every one of my breeding decisions are made in full consultation with registered veterinarians. All of my girls have full DNA… Read more Home environment All of my girls are treasured family members and always sleep inside, as do all pups. And a Fit-to-Fly Certificate, if required. It can result in puppies or dogs who collapse after only five to thirty minutes of exercise. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Canine Elliptocytosis Genetic Test Canine Elliptocytosis is a rare genetic disease causing the red blood cells to be abnormally elliptical in shape, rather than round. It generally does not cause a clinical problem to affected dogs, but puppies may be mildly anaemic and smaller than others. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. A DNA test is available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Cystinuria Genetic Test This condition mainly affects Newfoundlands although other breeds can be affected. It is a genetic condition which results in the production of kidney and bladder stones. There is a DNA test available to confirm that breeding dogs are not carrying this condition. Degenerative Myelopathy DM Genetic Test This is a disease affecting the spinal cord of older dogs, initially causing wobbliness and eventually hindlimb paralysis. It can affect a wide range of breeds. There is now a DNA test that can indicated if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. It results in the dog collapsing after periods of intense exercise, even if they are normally able to cope with lower levels of exercise. There is a DNA test available which can indicate if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. Elbow Dysplasia Physical Test These breeders have had x-rays taken on their breeding dogs to assess the quality of their elbow joints. Eye Certificate Physical Test An eye certificate means the breeder has had their breeding dogs examined by a veterinary ophthalmologist, to confirm they are not affected by any eye conditions which may be passed down genetically to their puppies. If relevant for the breed, it also includes running DNA tests to confirm the dog is not a genetic carrier of hereditary eye diseases, such as Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA. It causes very dry and crusty skin around the nose that predisposes to infections. There is a DNA test available to determine whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. HUU Genetic Test Hyperuricosuria HUU is a genetic disease that causes a build-up of uric acid in the urine, predisposing to painful bladder and kidney stones. It can occur in a range of breeds. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this disease. It results in the body rapidly overheating and is sometimes fatal. There is now a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. MPS Genetic Test Mucopolysaccharidosis is a genetic lysosomal storage disease that can cause various problems including stunted growth and bone deformities. There are a few different variants of this disease that have been identified in different breeds. For many breeds there are DNA tests available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying the condition. Affected puppies are small and lack coordination. Within weeks, the puppies may have difficulty holding their head up or standing and may collapse after exertion. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog might be carrying this condition. Narcolepsy Genetic Test Narcolepsy is a genetic disease which causes affected animals to fall asleep suddenly following periods of excitement, such a feeding or play. These dogs might collapse and appear drowsy or might completely fall asleep. They usually grow out of the condition after about one year of age. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Affected dogs can experience lethargy, exercise intolerance and severe anaemia. There is a DNA available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. There are a variety of sub-types of PRA, which can occur in various breeds. There are various DNA tests available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Patellar Luxation Physical Test Dogs affected by patellar luxation have loose kneecaps that may pop in and out of the knee joint, which can be painful and even require surgery. Having a vet examine breeding dogs for patellar luxation can confirm the dog is not affected, and that their puppies are less likely to develop the condition. Patellar luxation is more common in smaller breeds. Skeletal Dysplasia Genetic Test Skeletal Dysplasia is an inherited form of dwarfism which causes the leg bones to grow much shorter than is proportional for the body. Affected legs will be short and slightly bowed outwards. Often the forelimbs are more affected than the hindlimbs, which can make the condition more difficult to spot in subtle cases. It is incredibly rewarding breeding healthy new life in the form of Oodle puppies. More recently, I lived in Bali for 5 years where I was constantly picking up stray dogs and loving them back to health. You can rest assured that each and every pup leaves me having had an incredible… Read more.

Please contact me to FaceTime puppy. Comes with akc papers , micro chip and first vaccines. We are located in Naples Florida , we will travel to you at no cost. Buy Now 16 weeks old He has a loving and playful personality, he loves to give kisses and cuddle. Both parents are AKC health tested offering excellent champion Bloodline. The puppy come with Health Certificate, up to date in vaccine and deworming, Microchip Come with crate and puppy pee pads Buy Now 6 Frenchy Puppies The available puppies in our kennel, are the product of professional, supervised breeding. The baby and adult dogs live as part of our family. We aim to breed the healthiest bloodlines thats why all of our dogs have undergone many examinations which are focused on their: spine, heart, airways,kidneys. And they are also examined not just internally but externally as well. Of course we give them all the necessary shots and treatment against parasites. And everything is documented and copies are given to the future owners. Our puppies also have an internationally accepted pedigree which lead back 3 generations. The legal paperwork includes: a contract, receipt, and the Breeders guarantee. As a family we breed and raise quality puppies and strive for perfection when it comes to their health, structure and temperament. As a bonus we carry exotic rare colors. Our puppies and adult frenchies are more than just a dog they are our family. They are raised with love and care. They are also raised with children and are socialized before going to their new furever homes. All puppies are AKC registered, dewormed and vaccinated with a health certificate upon completion of vaccinations. They come with a one year health guarantee and start the potty training process before going to their new families. We have spent a lot of time researching and studying this breed in order to bring top quality Frenchies to the community. If interested please feel free to contact us at xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. Family friendly. Energetic and playful. Beautiful colors, super sweet. Wont last at this price. His name is Beau and he is the sweetest little boy. He can cuddle all day, a true lap dog. Loves people and playing with other pups too! His demeanor is very relaxed and obedient. We have all his veterinary and pedigree information available for you! He has all his shots and is in perfect heath! She is a beautiful and sweet French Bulldog who loves to play, is excellent around children, and needs a new home. She loves nature, chasing butterfly's, and seeking out rabbits around the golf course. She is spayed, microchipped, and up to date on all her shots. She can sit, stand up, and spin. We are seeking a family to take her in. I have had several pets, and Athena is by far the best dog I have ever had. Unfortunately, we cannot keep her. We will only let her go to a loving family who is willing to welcome her in with open arms and shower her with love. These pups are the perfect combination between the two breeds. They have soft, hypo-allergenic fur, and the cutest little noses. Pictures are of the female the flowers are in the background. Pictures are of the male. These puppies are 4-weeks old. They were born February 6th. They will come up to date on all vaccinations and dewormings. They also come vet-checked and with a one year health guarantee. French Boodles are very intelligent because of their poodle genetics. We have raised the pups around kids and other animals so they will adjust well to their new home. In about a week or so we will begin training them on pee pads. We take great pride in these pups. They are extremely healthy, adorable, and even-tempered. Please look closely at the pictures as we are very proud of these pups. They will be ready to go to their new homes April 2nd. We are accepting small deposits in the meantime to hold the pup of your choice. If interested, please contact Reagan via email or at xxx-xxx-xxxx. For more info please contact. These beautiful fur friends are ready for their forever families. View Detail AKC French Bulldog Male Adorable French Bulldog puppy, very short body, flat face, and no tail, will have 2 puppy shots, State of Florida health certificate, de-wormings, paper training by 8 weeks old, handled daily, all European pedigree. Please contact contact petzlover. Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. We have answers. What are French Bulldogs like? We believe that French Bulldogs are some of the most adorable dogs in the world. With their unique appearance and personality, they are sure to make any family fall in love. Frenchies are descendants of English Bulldogs and share many of the same great qualities. They are known for being friendly and they make wonderful companions. Looking for a French Bulldog puppy? Uptown Puppies can help! We work with top Frenchie breeders all across America to help connect you with the perfect pup. Many of our breeders offer travel chaperoning services to make getting your new furry friend as easy as possible. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places with French Bulldog puppies? Looking for a puppy can be overwhelming with all of the different options out there. Uptown Puppies strives to make things easier by only working with the best breeders. Our mission is to eliminate puppy mills and help families find the perfect pup for their home. Looking for a French Bulldog pup? You're in luck! There are plenty of Frenchies available right now. But you'll have to act fast if you want to reserve one, as they are very popular and new litters get snapped up quickly. So if you've fallen in love with a particular puppy, don't hesitate to reserve it before someone else does! Looking for Naples French Bulldogs for sale, Naples? Are French Bulldog puppies easy to train? Dogs of all breeds can be stubborn and lazy at times, but with the right attitude and some patience, even the most challenging pups can be trained. French Bulldogs are no exception. Start off on the right foot by being clear and consistent with your commands from the get-go, and before you know it, your French Bulldog will be a well-trained pooch. Frenchies come in a variety of coat colors and patterns. The most common coat colors are fawn, brindle, white, and cream. Frenchies can also have ticked coloring, black masks, white spots, piebald spots, brindle patches, or a combination of any of these. No matter what their coat looks like, Frenchies are always adorable. How much exercise does a French Bulldog for sale in Naples need? Although Frenchies are often thought of as lazy, they do need daily exercise just like all dogs. How much exercise your Frenchie needs depends on factors like weight, appetite, and temperament. Ultimately, you'll get a feel for how much exercise your Frenchie needs over time. Just remember that a tired Frenchie is usually a happy one. Do Naples French Bulldog for sale, Naples, shed? Do you love dogs, but hate picking up their fur all over your house? A French Bulldog may be the perfect pup for you! These adorable dogs are known for shedding very little hair. So, you can spend more time enjoying your furry friend, and less time cleaning up after them. Does a French Bulldog Naples have a lot of health issues? When looking for a French Bulldog puppy, it is important to choose an ethical breeder. This is because inexperienced breeders may not be aware of the potential respiratory problems that these dogs can face. By choosing a reputable breeder, you can help ensure that your puppy will be healthy and happy. Are French Bulldog puppies Naples popular? Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, but there is something special about French Bulldogs that has won the hearts of people all over the world. From their goofy appearance to their fun-loving personality, French Bulldogs make great family pets. They are kind and affectionate, and will bring joy to any home. If you're looking for a pint-sized pup with a big personality, then a French Bulldog is the perfect dog for you! These unique looking dogs are great family pets, and they come in a variety of colors and markings. You can find French Bulldog puppies for sale all over the world, but if you're looking for Scottsdale French Bulldog puppies for sale in Scottsdale AZ, then we've got just what you're looking for! Looking for a travel buddy that won't require a lot of work? A French Bulldog may be perfect for you! They don't shed very much, they're relatively inactive, and they love cuddling. Just be aware that French Bulldogs don't do well in hot weather.

All of our dogs are big part of our family and all of our puppies that we bring into this world become an extended family of Lettland German Shepherds. We provide a lifetime support to all our puppy buyers for the life of your puppy and beyond. Our dogs and puppies are family first, show and breeding dogs second and we only breed with thought in preserving this beautiful breed, aiming for great temperament, health and structure. All of our puppies are whelped and raised in our home, are socialised with different people and animals, have started toilet and crate training, general manners training, are exposed to different stimuli each day from an early age and are temperament tested prior going to their new homes to ensure your new puppy is a perfect match for your family and lifestyle. We love raising puppies and try to give them best possible start to life and prepare them the best we can for the big wide world. We put in a lot of hard work and time into our litters, puppies and adults and are very proud of our breeding program. All our litters are raised using Puppy Culture. Check out of Facebook and Instagram page For more photos and information. The breeders shown are members of DOGS QLD and registered owners of purebred dogs who have chosen to be showcased in our online breeder directory. These breeders may advertise litters for sale. In providing you with their details, DOGS QLD make no representations as to the reputation of any breeder or as to the soundness or suitability of any puppy you may decide to acquire from any breeder. You must satisfy yourself that any puppy you may decide to acquire is healthy, sound and meets your requirements. Join our free newsletter to keep up to date with all the dog news! Sign up You can unsubscribe at any time. Our dogs are our family. They are raised on our farm and get to interact and play with our young family, run around with plenty of ample space, and are treated with the utmost service and professional care. Showline West German Shepherds of German Championship Bloodlines are wonderful dogs with even disposition with composed confident temperaments, of great intelligence with wonderful formation of the True breed. With years of personal experience owning our own German Shepherds, we are filled with excitement for our loving customers , to now experience the joy and happiness that these beautiful dogs will give you. Please call us at to inquire about more details, pricing, waiting list and securing a spot on our reserved list. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube page for updates. We continue where man and dog have built a strong relationship that lasts a lifetime. We strive to continuously better the beloved breed through a selective breeding program with excellent pedigrees and proven championship bloodlines. We focus on providing German Shepherd puppies with excellent temperaments, that possess the qualifications of the German Shepherd breed standards and physical health to become top quality members of your family or team. German Shepherd dogs are one of the most popular breeds. Known for their intelligence , loyalty , obedience and intuitive guardian awareness. We have imported European German Shepherd females with excellent championship pedigrees. In addition , we have a selection of dogs with V Excellent rating and have achieved their own titles. We have also selectively hand-picked our imported breeding studs who are exemplary of the German Shepherd breed standards with their own wonderful pedigrees , VA Excellent Select ratings and accomplished titles. Our German Shepherd puppies are raised in our home as part of our family for a strong foundation in life. Our German Shepherds are seen for health exams regularly , along with treatment as needed throughout the year. Puppies are provided with Vet examination. These dogs were originally bred to work on ranches and farms, herding livestock and performing other tasks. Their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility made them popular among farmers and ranchers. Despite its American roots, the Australian Shepherd has become a beloved breed worldwide, including in Queensland. Today, many reputable Australian Shepherd breeders in Queensland are dedicated to producing healthy and happy puppies. Look for breeders with a good reputation and members of reputable breed clubs and organizations. You can also ask for recommendations from other Aussie owners. Ask About Health Testing A responsible breeder will conduct health testing on their breeding dogs to ensure they are free from genetic diseases that can be passed on to their puppies. Ask the breeder about the specific health tests that they perform. Visit the Breeder in Person Visiting the breeder in person and seeing their facilities is always a good idea. This will allow you to meet the breeder and their dogs and see how the puppies are raised. Ask About Socialization A responsible breeder will ensure their puppies are well socialized before returning to their new homes. Ask the breeder about how they socialize their puppies and what kind of experiences the puppies have had. This will outline the terms and conditions of the sale, any health guarantees and other important information. Conclusion Australian Shepherds are a popular and beloved breed, and many reputable breeders in Queensland are dedicated to producing healthy and happy puppies. By researching, asking the right questions, and choosing a responsible breeder, you can find the perfect Aussie to add to your family. Image Credits:. To address and prevent joint disease, talk to your doctor about dietary supplements for musculoskeletal health, in addition to limiting jumping and rough play and give them a good and balanced diet. It is important to emphasize that these ingredients should not come from just one common ingredient. Their diet should come from the best food sources. The ideal source of protein should come from all sources of meat, such as beef, fish and poultry, and other lean meats. Other animal products, including poultry, do not provide enough protein compared to whole protein sources. With regard to healthy fat sources, look for foods that contain fish oil and vegetables to get omega-3 fatty acids. Extra ingredients such as sweet potatoes and carrots are also good for the German shepherd. Small amounts of barley, oats, rice, and other digestible carbohydrates can also be given German Shepherd History The ancestors of German shepherds have bred in late 19th century Germany as working dogs, specifically as sheepdogs and guard dogs on farms. In , after much disagreement about which qualities to highlight in the breed, Max von Stephanitz declared the first German shepherd dog, which he named Horand von Grafrath. Due to anti-German sentiment after the s, the German shepherd has renamed the Alsatian wolf dog or simply called an Alsatian in the United Kingdom and the United States until as recently as .Socializing your puppy and teaching it essential skills like sleeping through the night and toileting outside. Please and we see it all the time give your puppy a good quality ball to play with and make sure its from a reputable breeder. Unsure which dog training package is right for you and your dog? Our friendly team is here to help recommend the best dog training plan for your dog.

If you click on a link and choose to make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no cost to you. As a pet parent, there are times when I have noticed that my Golden Retriever seems to look sad. Golden Retrievers do not experience clinical depression as humans do. However, they can feel a form of depression that includes intense sadness, the blues, and even grief. They may also experience seasonal depression during the winter months when exercise and outdoor time are reduced. So, Golden Retrievers can indeed experience a form of depression that includes sadness, grief, the blues, and even a form of seasonal affective disorder in the winter months. This article will look at sadness and depression in Golden Retrievers, including causes, signs to look for, and what you can do if your dog is sad or depressed. Golden Retriever Sadness and Depression In order to determine if dogs can feel sadness and grief, they first need to be able to feel emotions, as humans do. Logically, if they can feel grief and sadness then it stands to reason they can also experience a form of depression. New research shows that dogs feel emotions and experience loss, grief, and sadness. Gregory Burns, a professor of Neuroeconomics and Director of the Center for Neuropolicy at Emory University, has done extensive research on dog emotions. While many scientists find it hard to believe that dogs or animals can experience emotions much the same way we do, Dr. Berns utilized non-invasive magnetic imaging resonance MRIs in conjunction with a dog trainer to track the areas of the human and canine brains that are active during certain emotions [ source ]. Berns concluded that dogs have vibrant interior lives and experience-rich emotions similar to ours. Gregory Burns But, do these emotions include sadness and even depression? Yes, it appears so. Consider a study conducted in New Zealand and Australia that attempted to assess signs of depression in dogs and cats after losing a companion animal [ source ]. The study utilized a questionnaire distributed to dog and cat owners, which returned surveys, including for dogs. While researchers in that study acknowledged certain limitations, they concluded that behaviors changed due to the loss of a companion animal. Sounds a lot like sadness and grief to me. I saw these symptoms in our cat when our Sheltie passed. Our cat as a kitten had grown up with the Sheltie as a puppy, and they spent years closely bonded. Fortunately, it passed with time. Suppose you suspect your Golden Retriever is sad or experiencing depression or the blues. In that case, there is a good chance you have already identified some of the symptoms. In fact, the biggest thing to be on the lookout for is a change in demeanor. Your dog will often become lethargic and withdrawn and lose interest in activities they used to enjoy, such as walking. However, symptoms of sadness or depression can cover a wide range, including Becoming withdrawn or hiding Lethargic and a loss of interest in once enjoyed activities Sleeping more Eating less or a loss of interest in food Seeking more affection from owners or becoming more clingy An increase in destructive behaviors such as chewing and digging Suppose your Golden Retriever has lost a companion. In that case, it may experience the following symptoms of grief in addition to those listed above: Visiting favorite areas of the deceased pet Changes in vocalizations such as barking or whining Inappropriate elimination peeing or pooping in the house It is imperative to caution readers that many medical conditions cause symptoms similar to those listed. As a result, it is essential to have your dog checked out by a veterinarian to rule out any medical causes. For example, chronic pain can be mistaken as depression in older pets, as can a form of dementia in older dogs called Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Syndrome. In addition, if a dog is depressed, the stress from that sadness may cause medical issues to emerge or aggravate existing ones. Suppose your veterinarian rules out any medical issues and depression is expected. In that case, the vet will most likely ask for a thorough pet history. Golden Retrievers are typically not lazy, so an abrupt change in activity level might signal depression or something else. Obviously, as pet parents, if our Golden Retrievers are depressed or sad, we want to help them in any way we can. But, to do so, we first must know why or what causes a Golden Retriever to become depressed? Golden Retrievers often experience depression due to changes in physical or social well-being or home life changes. For example, emotional or physical abuse, trauma, loss of a companion, chronic pain, changes in seasons and routines, and the addition of a pet or person to the household may all be factors. Each of these, alone or in combination, has the potential to cause sadness or depression in your Golden Retriever. The breed is not known to be aggressive and is instead friendly, affectionate, and eager to please and learn. It is one of the reasons the Golden Retriever breed makes such good therapy and service dogs. However, that sensitivity means they do not do well with physical punishments, yelling, and aversives. Do NOT use aversives or severe punishments on your Golden Retriever Prolonged and harsh training methods can, over time, cause a Golden Retriever to experience many symptoms of depression, such as withdrawal and lack of interest in once enjoyable activities. In addition, many old-fashioned training methods, harsh corrections, or aversives such as shock collars can cause a Golden Retriever to have behavioral problems, including depression. Moreover, extreme forms of physical and emotional abuse such as neglect, beatings, and harsh verbal reprimands are almost guaranteed to cause learned helplessness. Segiliman administered unavoidable electric shocks to dogs. Source In fact, the Learned helplessness theory believes that clinical depression and related mental illnesses may result from an actual or perceived absence of control over the outcome of a situation. If the abuse is harsh enough, it is traumatic to your dog. Trauma could also be a vicious attack from another dog, an accident, abuse, or even a loss. Therefore, any distressing event that causes a long-lasting emotional response can be defined as traumatic. Chronic Pain Chronic pain in your Golden Retriever can be a vicious cycle. It affects your dog physically, and it can impact it mentally as well. Chronic pain is a long-standing pain or a pain that you cannot escape. It can affect your ability to participate in normal daily activities or make them very uncomfortable. It can also affect sleep, appetite, and overall quality of life. So, prolonged pain in a dog can trigger depression. In fact, by definition, prolonged and inescapable pain can trigger learned helplessness in a dog. Or us! Life-Changing Events Often the biggest trigger for sadness in a Golden Retriever is some form of a life-changing event. Life-changing events include the loss of a companion, a new pet or person in the house, being rehomed, and a change to normal routines. The good news is that for most of these, the form of depression is temporary. However, your dog may experience intense sadness, grief, and even a form of depression in the interim. For example, the dog does not get outside or walked for as long in the winter. Likewise, introducing a new pet or newborn to the family dynamic is temporary and often subsides quickly. However, other changes, such as losing an owner or pet companion, can be traumatic and take longer to subside. Losing a pet can be extremely hard on pet owners as well. Seasonal Changes It is well documented that humans can suffer from depression related to the change in seasons and lack of sunlight. Depression in this form is called seasonal affective disorder SAD. According to certified animal behavior consultant Steve Dale, the answer is maybe [ source ]. According to Dale, both humans and dogs have similar brain chemistry, including sharing hormones like melatonin and serotine, which are impacted by daylight. In the winter months, when daylight decreases, the brain produces less of these hormones, both of which can adversely affect mood. So, according to Dale, it is conceivable that pets can get SAD; however, he notes that there is no way to measure SAD in animals objectively. Another factor could be activity levels. Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and require a lot of physical exercise, which can be difficult in cold winter months. As a result, the decreased activity may contribute to mood changes in the winter months. Any discussion on sadness or depression in your Golden Retriever would not be complete without suggestions on what can be done. Below are some actionable items you can take to help your pet if it is depressed or sad and it has not resolved quickly. A Veterinarian Examination If your dog is suffering from prolonged sadness or depressive symptoms, you should first get it examined by a veterinarian. So, in other words, you may think your dog is depressed when it is suffering from a painful medical condition that your vet might be able to help with. Keep in mind, that dogs are very well adapted to hiding their pain, so you might not even know they are hurting. Hence, the need for a vet exam. Leslie Sinn, a Diplomate of the American College of Veterinary Behaviorists ACVB and certified professional dog trainer cautions owners to be aware of depressive symptoms in the absence of life-changing events [ source ]. If your dog is in pain, do not medicate with pain relievers containing Ibuprofen such as Advil. Ibuprofen is very dangerous to Golden Retrievers, even in small doses. How dangerous is Ibuprofen to Golden Retrievers? Positive methods are especially important if you are fostering or adopting a Golden Retriever that was abused, neglected, or traumatized. Suppose you have a Golden Retriever as a puppy that needs training. Golden Retrievers are not only eager to please and biddable willing to learn , but they are highly intelligent and obedient, making them very easy to train. Their sensitive natures make them best suited to positive training methods. Researchers discovered that the reported use of positive reinforcement or bond-based training methods reward-based was linked with much more positive outcomes. In contrast, positive punishment aversive-based is associated with more negative consequences, including fear. In those instances, harsh methods may only exacerbate the depressive condition, i. Golden Retrievers Need Friends Too Golden Retrievers are like human kids and adults in that for healthy socialization; they need friends. Pet friends can especially be important if they lose a pet companion. Playing with other dogs helps ease the loneliness and loss. If your dog has a fur buddy, arrange some time for them to hang out. Alternatively, you can book them a day or two each week at a reputable doggie daycare, where they can get some socialization, exercise, and play. If your pet is missing a furry friend, engaging with another dog can help fill the void. Of course, adopting another dog can also help, but you should not make this decision solely to cheer your dog up. Bringing a new pet home needs to be the right fit for you and your pet. Increase the Time You Spend With Your Dog Golden Retrievers bond closely with their owners, so spending extra time with your dog offers some support, which may benefit the dog from increased attention. In addition, going for walks helps get the body moving, and often the mind follows beneficially. Plus, sunlight and fresh air help as well. You could also increase time in short training sessions keep them to five or ten minutes a couple of times per day and games such as fetch or puzzles. Stimulating the mind and body in productive and fun ways can help a dog move through a bout of sadness more quickly. If they are overstimulated, stressed, or anxious, they need a space to settle down and decompress. Two excellent options are Kongs and snuffle mats. In addition to helping the dog self-soothe and stimulate the mind, Kongs and snuffle mats can be an effective way to ensure they eat. If you find your Golden Retriever is not eating or not as much, then you want to make sure it gets its nutrition. Snuffle mats can have kibble or freeze-dried liver snaps placed in them. In this way, it can stimulate itself while getting some nutrition. Another great option is stuffing freeze-dried treats and kibble in the Kong with a bit of peanut butter, which can often get a dog eating. Kongs and snuffle mats engage the mind while offering food more slowly. Make sure that whatever you use as a treat is a favorite of your dogs. You want it to be as appealing as possible to get them to eat. Adding a topper like the one below to their food may also encourage your pet to eat. I use this topper for Bailey when he is being a picky eater Final Thoughts Golden Retrievers can become depressed and sad at times. So be on the lookout for changes in their lives. Sometimes it will be apparent, while at other times, you may have to do a bit of investigating. A medical issue or pain may be at the root of the problem. The good news is that most of these forms of depression, be it from sadness, grief, or the blues, are mild and temporary. With some positive interventions and attention, it will pass. For more prolonged or severe bouts, it is best to work with your veterinarian to find the cause and solution. Depression in dogs is a serious matter as well, and it can have some physical effects on your dog and can cause them to lose appetite, be lazy, and become overall lethargic and sad. One of the very common causes of depression in goldens is being left alone a lot. Golden Retrievers are very social and they need to spend time with other people and animals. Leaving them alone a lot will cause behavioral problems and can make them sad. You can learn how long can you leave your golden retriever alone here. In this case, your dog will probably show other signs of being sick. They may vomit, some hair may fall, you may see red spots, etc. If this is the case, you should take them to the vet to get a diagnosis and get the treatments needed. Poor Nutrition A poor diet can harm your golden retriever quite a bit in every way, including their mood and energy levels, of course. Poor nutrition can be one of three things; They are eating too little They are eating too much They are not getting the right nutrients If you are feeding your dog the right portion and they are still gaining weight, they are probably getting fed by someone else as well. For example, a family member may be spoiling them with the treats or table scraps without you knowing about it. Here are 18 examples of humans foods golden retrievers should never consume , make sure none of the table scraps you feed your dog contain these foods. Not Getting Enough Exercise Goldens are active, energetic dogs that need a daily dose of exercise of no less than 30 minutes of moderate intensity exercises to stay physically and mentally healthy. If your dog is not getting enough exercise, they may look sad because they are indeed sad and tired. Less exercise can actually lower their energy levels and make them feel tired. If your dog is adopted, mistreatment could trigger them into depression as it could bring back the memories and bad feelings, so this is something you should consider very carefully. Physical punishments of this type should be strictly banned in your household. If you employ a dog sitter or walker, find a way to make sure they are not mistreating the dog in any way. They may also want their walks to be shorter or prefer to nap than going for a walk. I, of course, added the possible solutions that can help your golden regain their energy levels. They lose their appetite and their eating patterns can change, such as they start dragging their food to another room to eat away from everyone or prefer to eat later when no one is around. Sporadic episodes of howling or whimpering They can start howling or whimpering without apparent triggers. Their tones of the howling would be somewhat low-energy and sad, and if you have heard their sad howls before then you know it could be heartbreaking. They can be doing this to not face anyone or feel pressured to socialize with anyone. This goes hand-in-hand with the avoiding behavior discussed earlier. Becomes disinterested in things they used to like Your dog could suddenly lose interest in things and activities that used to excite them. For example, they may not be excited to play fetch anymore, play with their favorite toys, or even go to the park. Display Compulsive Behaviors Compulsive behaviors such as constantly licking their paws, chewing on furniture, or other actions done constantly and with no obvious reason behind it could be a sign that the dog is stressed out or depressed and are trying to find some relief. Improving their diet includes making sure to give them the proper meal size for their age and activity level, making sure they are getting all the needed nutrients, and maybe introducing supplements if needed. If you spend most of your day at work, make sure to make the most out of the little time you have together. The Furbo Dog Monitor also allows two-way communication so you will be able to see them, hear them, give them treats, while also allowing them to hear you and talk to you. Introduce Changes If their daily routine is making them sad or bored, you could shake things up a little bit. Maybe change their walk times from morning to evenings or take them new places around town. Taking them to a doggy day care is a good idea here because it allows them to see new faces and interact with new people and new animals. Reward them for being active Whenever your dog shows signs of activity or becomes a bit hyper for a short burst, make sure to make the most of it by rewarding them and engaging with them with high energy. Show them that this really makes you happy and keep your energy levels high. Praise them and give them treats, this will make them more likely to repeat it and gradually they will get back to their normal, active and happy self. Take them to the vet If your dog is exhibiting symptoms of illness, you should take them to the vet. You should try to communicate positive energy to your dog, which is the only way to help them improve and recover from what is making them sad. Do Golden Retrievers Get Sad? Yes, Golden Retrievers get sad when they are ignored, left alone for long periods of time, or are mistreated. Goldens are very social animals and very loyal to their owners, so when they are separated from their owners or mistreated by them they can get very sad.

Vocality level 3 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The Boxer is playful, exuberant, inquisitive, attentive, demonstrative, devoted, and outgoing; this dog is a perfect companion for an active family. Boxers can be stubborn, but are sensitive and responsive to commands. They may be assertive toward strange dogs, but are generally good with other family dogs and pets. Upkeep The Boxer needs daily mental and physical exertion. They likes to run, but their exercise needs can also be met with a good jog or long walk on leash. They do not do well in hot weather. Some snore. The coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hair. Health Major concerns: boxer cardiomyopathy, SAS, CHD Minor concerns: gastric torsion, hypothyroidism, corneal erosion, colitis Occasionally seen: brain tumors, degenerative myelopathy Suggested tests: thyroid, hip, cardiac Holter monitoring Life span: 8—10 years Note: Sensitive to heat. White boxers may be deaf. The drug acepromazine can cause severe reactions. History The Boxer derives from two central European breeds of dog that no longer exist: the larger Danziger Bullenbeiser and smaller Brabenter Bullenbeiser. Bullenbeiser means bull-biter, and these dogs were used to chase large game through the forest. This required a strong but agile dog with a broad powerful jaw and a recessed nose. In England, the Bulldog was the favored breed for the sport, whereas in Germany large mastiff-type dogs were used. Around the s, German hunters began a concerted effort to create a new breed, crossing their Bullenbeisers with mastiff-type dogs for size, terriers for tenacity, and, finally, Bulldogs. The result was a tough agile dog with a streamlined body and strong grip. By , an entirely new breed, the Boxer, had been established. Although the exact origin of the name Boxer is obscure, it may have been derived from the German Boxl. The Boxer was one of the first breeds to be employed as a police and military dog in Germany. By , the breed had become established as a general utility dog, family pet, and even show dog. The AKC recognized the breed soon after, but only in the s did the breed begin its steady rise to the top of the popularity charts, eventually peaking as the fourth most popular breed in America. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article. Look no further! We have a network of trusted breeders who ensure that our puppies are healthy, happy, and ready to be your new furry best friend. What are Boxer puppies? Boxer puppies trace their origin to 19th-century Germany, where they were developed as versatile working dogs. Around the mids, German breeders aimed to create a loyal and courageous dog capable of performing various tasks. They crossed Bullenbeissers with Bulldogs and selected for traits like strength, intelligence, and agility. The result was the Boxer we know today. Boxers quickly gained popularity as police and military dogs due to their loyalty, trainability, and protective instincts. They were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC in , solidifying their status as a distinct breed. Over time, Boxers transitioned from working roles to beloved companions and show dogs. Their friendly demeanor, boundless energy, and affectionate nature make them cherished family pets worldwide. The origin of Boxer puppies is a testament to the careful breeding and selection that have crafted a breed known for its remarkable combination of strength, intelligence, and affection. Temperament of Boxers Boxers are known for their playful and energetic temperament. They are intelligent dogs that are eager to please and love to learn new things. Boxers are loyal and protective of their family, making them great watchdogs. They are also affectionate and make great companions for children and adults alike. With proper training and socialization, Boxers make great family pets. We offer a vast selection of healthy and happy Boxer puppies that will make excellent family pets. With our commitment to quality and affordability, we make it easy for you to find your new furry best friend. About Vincent Hello! Are you looking for a lifelong companion? Look no further. I am here and just perfect for you. Trust me! I am very loyal, and I can make you smile with just the way I wag my tail. I have a wonderful disposition. Oh, silly me! Well, choose me today!

Featured Sessions All of my custom pet photo sessions start with a phone call to plan the perfect session for each pet family. No two are ever completely alike, even at the same location! She said that she would love to do her photo session there because it would be such a fitting location for her two hunting dogs, Brittany Spaniels Gauge and Georgia. Both dogs were on leash for their whole session, and it was removed later, in Photoshop. We use a 30 foot lead for running shots like these! She was very concerned that her busy, active hunting dogs could not be off leash, but she really wanted to capture them being active in a natural setting that suited the breed. As you can see, the marsh absolutely delivered all we could have hoped for! It was a stormy evening with dramatic skies and even a rainbow for a little while. The actual rain was considerate enough to wait until we were heading back to our cars at the end of the photo shoot. This is one of my absolute favourite photos from this year. The sunset reflecting on the Shepody River made a perfect backdrop for this happy pair of dogs. The sunset on the river behind Gauge and Georgia almost creates an optical illusion, as though I might have been shooting up at them, with the sky behind them! I do worry about them being too excited to work with. I thought of them as a memorial. Whatever your intention or need is for photos of your pet, Tracy can capture it- not just the picture, but the sentiment and the personalities of your pet s! Photos are important! They last long after the moment has passed - Make the investment! Featured Product - a gorgeous, custom-made memory box from my photo shoot with a pair of hunting dogs on the marsh. Slightly obsessed with how gorgeous this custom-made Memory Box turned out. All in all, between the beautiful subjects and the incredible light we had out on the marsh that evening, this was one of my favourite sessions of this year. Acrylic top memory boxes like this one are hands down my most popular product. They hold very sturdy, rigid matted prints that are ready to be framed or display as they are on a shelf or small easel. Clients love them because they can get more images from their session, and have the flexibility to rotate which images they display, while storing the others safely. This is a room mock-up, showing the large matted prints this client chose for her walls, as they would look to scale in a room. Many dogs dislike having their feet touched as this can be a very dominant behavior or, they may have had a negative experience in the past. Getting your dog used to having its feet handled is something that is best started in puppyhood. Following are three potentially painful consequences of not trimming their nails. This is especially common if your dog has dewclaws. If they pull hard enough the outer casing of the nail can be ripped off exposing the quick and nerve endings. This can be quite painful and it is common for these types of injuries to become infected. A trip to your local Vet is usually required to treat and in worst cases your dog may need to be sedated so the wound can be cleaned and repaired. The sharp end of the nail pierces through the tough layer of skin over the pads and creates an open, ulcerated wound that is very swollen and painful as well as usually infected. The treatment and prevention for this needless injury is a simple nail trim. Pain management and antibiotics are also typically prescribed. Overgrown Nails Cause Accidents — Dogs use their nails for traction and balance when walking or running. Nails that are too long can cause a dog to slip and fall more easily. Older, arthritic dogs find these changes to be particularly uncomfortable. Nail trimming is a relatively easy way to avoid injury to your pet. If you feel uncomfortable doing it yourself your Veterinarian or Technician would be happy to help you.

So, while this is not a reason not to get a GSD, it is a reason to look for adequate breeders, to ask for health certificates, to take good care of your dog, and to go to routine vet check-ups. German Shepherds can also be costly to take care of not just to purchase The regular vet visits, the high need for exercise, and the extra-space requirements all make the GSD a relatively expensive dog to take care of in terms of money as well. German Shepherds are very smart but that also makes them easily bored — they require lots of mental stimulation As with all smart dog breeds such as retrievers and other shepherds, the high intelligence of the GSD can be a curse as much as a blessing. So, what can be done to avoid boredom? Toys and time. However, an inexperienced dog owner can find a GSD to be more than a handful. Why is that? Simple — because they are so smart! Yes, their intelligence means that you can train them a lot but it also means they can be temperamental, manipulative, and stubborn! This breed is cute and cuddly at home but socially awkward in public German shepherds are incredibly cute, social, and loving animals. They are loyal to their family and would do anything for those close to them. What does this mean for you? Even if you just get a random GSD and not give it any special training or socialization, the dog may still get along just fine with a cat or a newborn baby. However, in general, the social awkwardness and guard-dog nature of GSDs means that they often need to be socialized well if you want to make other additions to the households down the line. Make sure that you teach your growing GSD to get along with other dog breeds in the dog park or at home. If you have a cat or are thinking of getting a cat, make sure your German Shepherd is accustomed to interacting with cats without any aggression. One of the best and easiest ways to avoid most of the problems above is to just get a second German Shepherd! Yes, we did just say that this breed can be a handful. However, a second dog usually brings much more benefits than negatives: The second dog will join the first in the playtime, meaning that both will exercise with each other very often and minimize the need for your involvement. Having a second GSD also means more mental stimulation for both dogs — again, less work for you and more fun for them. As natural guard dogs, German Shepherds may need to be trained not to bark Unfortunately, GSDs are especially bad for apartment owners not just because they are big but also because they tend to bark at strangers. They are guard dogs after all. This can be avoided, of course, there are ways to train any dog not to bark at strangers or at outside noises. There are several reasons for this: The frequent barking we mentioned above. Yes, you can train that behavior away but your landlord may still forbid you from getting a GSD. Getting a carpet or another type of floor insulation will help here. Giving your dog enough playtime outside will also alleviate this problem. But you may still get in trouble with your neighbors. They are just a large breed and many people, including parents of small children, are afraid of large dogs. Not only are GSDs not hypoallergenic, but they also tend to shed a lot! There are two main reasons for this: The aforementioned health concerns that some German Shepherds have and that get more and more likely as the dog gets older. The simple fact that the GSD is a large dog breed and larger breeds just have a shorter lifespan than smaller ones. As you can see, there are lots of factors to consider before getting a GSD. In general, the right GSD owner can be characterized as such: Has a larger-than-average home, a yard, and a nearby dog park. Has enough time to spend with a German Shepherd. Knows how to train and socialize a GSD properly. Has the financial means to support a German Shepherd. Wants a second dog to play with the first one. How to prepare for getting a German Shepherd? Just like soon-to-be-parents before their first baby, there are lots of books and research to comb through if you want to give your future German Shepherd the care, upbringing, socialization, and care it needs. So Make sure your home is ready for a large dog to soon start springing through it. Make sure you have the time and daily schedule to play with a GSD. Consider owning a Cairn Terrier! In this article, we explore who would benefit them as furry friends! Check them here! Read on to discover nine types of people who should consider owning this unique breed. Check this article to learn more about the types of people who are perfect for owning a Poodle dog! November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! They are very loyal, intelligent and love to be kept active, so can be easy to train. They suit very active households as they need a lot of exercise every day. They are great dogs for owners with a lot of experience and time as, like most dogs, they can get bored easily. Unfortunately, German Shepherds do have a range of health issues due to the way they have been bred, which can end up being costly to owners and cause serious problems for the dog. Common health problems in German Shepherds German Shepherds are great dogs for the right owners, but they are at risk of certain conditions and illnesses common with the breed. Making sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening can reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by some of these upsetting conditions. This means that these types of dog have been bred over many years to look a certain way, but that these changes to the way they look have started to cause them health problems. For German Shepherds, this is mostly due to the shape of their back legs and hips. There is a screening test for this. There is a screening test. Inherited eye diseases — including cataracts and multifocal retinal dysplasia. There are screening testing for these. Epilepsy — a brain disorder causing seizures. Pituitary dwarfism — a hormone deficiency which causes severe growth problems and reduces lifespan. Haemophilia A and B — bleeding disorders that stop blood from clotting and cause wounds to bleed more than they should. Screening tests are available. This list is not exhaustive, and there are many other conditions that German Shepherds have been shown to be prone to. German Shepherds and barking As with any dog, German Shepherds are likely to bark. Their main purpose was for herding and guarding so they can be quite vocal when people walk past or enter or exit the house, but how much noise they make will vary from dog to dog. Training and socialisation Regardless of the age of your German Shepherd when you adopt it, you need to have clear boundaries to help keep them safe and happy. As with all training — consistency is key! Everyone in the family needs to follow the same rules. German Shepherds are very loyal to their owners and can be protective of their family. They can have a strong guarding instinct, so careful training and socialisation will be needed to prevent any guarding or aggressive behaviours. As with any dog, your German Shepherd will need to be well socialised with people, other animals and different objects and environments from a young age. Try to keep the time your German Shepherd is alone to an absolute minimum as they thrive on company and will worry about you if you leave them too long. You should never leave any dog alone for longer than four hours. Exercise Be prepared — German Shepherds are very active dogs! They need plenty of exercise to keep them happy and occupied. This will also stop them from barking out of boredom or having a nibble on the furniture. Your German Shepherd will need a minimum of two hours of exercise every day. This should include walks and off-lead exercise in a safe area, with extra playtime and training on top to give them a good variety. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together online. Our vets recommend spreading exercise across the day rather than trying to do two hours all in one go. German Shepherds are a great breed if you enjoy long walks and spending loads of time exploring outside. If there are times when you are unable to give them the exercise they need, then arranging for a relative, friend or dog-walker to come and help would be essential. Grooming Be prepared for a lot of shedding because German Shepherds have such thick coats! Ideally, you should give your German Shepherd a brush or comb down a few times a week to keep their coat looking healthy, prevent matting and reduce the build-up of dead hair especially if they have a longer coat. You may want to take them to a professional for bath time because of their size. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate German Shepherds and children Adult German Shepherds can range from being calm and patient to bouncy and boisterous, depending on their personality, training and socialisation. Some can make great family pets in homes with children of all ages, but dogs should always be supervised around young children. Make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. German Shepherds and other pets To help them be calm and patient, it's best to socialise your German Shepherd with other dogs and pets from a young age. Some can be a bit bossy with other dogs as they get older but with proper care, training and socialisation this is unlikely to become a problem. German Shepherds are usually fine with other family pets they have grown up with. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. You should feed them a good quality, commercially available, complete dog food. We usually recommend splitting their daily allowance into two meals. If you give your dog the occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily allowance. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave at a gap after eating and before exercising. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. These breeders must do extra health tests and meet high standards. Set up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around six months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. Fun facts The first guide dogs for visually impaired people were German Shepherds. They were originally bred to be herding dogs, an instinct which still remains strong in the breed. They need lots of exercise and plenty to do to stop getting bored. Make sure you have enough space and time to give them the exercise and attention they need to stay happy and healthy. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a German Shepherd. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in German Shepherds are also out there. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary screening tests, health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards.